New World Screwworm (nationwide) – As of this writing, 45 cases of New World Screwworm (NWS, or screwworm) have been detected since the first American case was identified on June 3, 2026. NWS is a parasitic fly whose larvae burrow into the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, typically through an open wound. Typically, painful wounds and serious infections result. If not identified and treated in time, death may also result. Currently, all areas classified as Infested Zones or Adjacent Surveillance Zones are in Texas. USDA, the Texas Animal Health Commission, and agriculture officials from other states are working to eliminate NWS, primarily through the release of sterilized flies to prevent further generations of the pests.
Many state veterinarians and other public health officials believe that the movement of companion animals presents a significant risk of spreading screwworm beyond Texas. To mitigate the risk, 43 state agriculture and public health officials have imposed emergency rules that require greater health validations and checks before warm-blooded animals, including dogs, are allowed to be moved via interstate travel.
Immediately following the identification of the first case of NWS, AKC Government Relations created and maintains a list of NWS-related rules that may impact dog owners. AKC recommends that all dog owners, or anyone who works with dogs, learn about NWS and stay updated on developments and animal movement restrictions, especially:
- Anyone potentially engaging in interstate transportation with dogs—owners, AKC event competitors, professional handlers, event superintendents, and interstate transporters, including those that are part of shelter and rescue operations—should become familiar with new health and animal movement requirements imposed to help prevent further spread of the pest. Attention should be paid to NWS-related animal movement rules imposed by (1) their home state, (2) all states they will travel though, both outbound and return, and (3) their destination state; and
- Show and trial secretaries, who are encouraged to determine the impact of NWS-related animal movement restrictions, particularly for events to be held in Texas.
Dog owners are also encouraged to explore www.screwworm.gov, USDA’s online clearinghouse for the latest information on the prevalence of NWS in the United States.